Ekiti State Forestry Commission Donates Trees to Arboretum Honoring First African Forestry Professor

In a collaborative effort, the Ekiti State Forestry Commission, Ekiti State University (EKSU), and the Green to Abundant Development and Empowerment Foundation (GADEF) have established an Arboretum (tree plantation) to honor the late Professor Samuel Kolade Adeyoju, the first Professor of Forestry in Africa.

The Arboretum, located at EKSU and Ijan Ekiti, was officially inaugurated on Thursday. Professor Adeyoju, who passed away a few months ago at the age of 88, was a highly respected figure in the field of forestry in Nigeria.

Mr. Adekunle Sunday, the Executive Secretary of the Ekiti State Forestry Commission, stated that the Arboretum will serve as a teaching and international research center for students and tourists. He revealed that the Ekiti State government donated all the trees planted in Ijan Ekiti to honor the legacy of Professor Adeyoju, who had made significant contributions to the development of forestry in the state.

“I appreciate the Forestry Association of Nigeria, EKSU management, and GADEF who donated trees to be planted at EKSU for their support to immortalize our father and ICON who had positively impacted lives,” Adekunle said. “We shall maintain the Arboretum and make it a global event.”

The event was organized by the Department of Forest Resources and Wildlife Management at EKSU, in collaboration with the Ekiti State Forestry Commission, GADEF, and the Forestry Association of Nigeria (FAN).

During the event, speakers praised Professor Adeyoju’s contributions to the forestry sector, his mentorship of many, and his diligence and honor. The Ijan community and the Adeyoju family were urged to maintain the plantation to ensure the preservation of the trees.

The Arboretum is expected to host diverse tree species, not only for teaching and research purposes but also as a global heritage center for seedling collection.